ALOR SETAR, Aug 24 (Bernama) -- The Malay Chamber of Commerce Malaysia (DPMM) Kedah and the Trang Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Thailand, have organised a business matching and networking programme (B2B) to strengthen the cross-border economy, particularly in the tourism and halal industries.
DPMM Kedah adviser Zuhaizar Abdul Karim said the initiative could help resolve the “common challenges” faced by both sides, given that their locations serve as transit points that could potentially generate greater spillover benefits from tourism.
“Malaysian tourists travelling to Phuket and Krabi usually pass through Trang without stopping, due to concerns and misconceptions regarding a lack of interesting attractions and the difficulty of finding halal food in the province.
“The same situation also occurs in Kedah. Tourists from Thailand or foreigners who want to renew their visas generally pass through Kedah on their way to Penang and Kuala Lumpur,” he told reporters here today.
Zuhaizar earlier received a courtesy visit from Trang Deputy Governor Anan Boon Samran and a delegation of 22 entrepreneurs from various sectors and industries.
As a result of the challenges faced by Kedah and Trang, neither side was benefiting from the economic spillover they should be receiving, Zuhaizar said.
“That is why DPMM invited the delegation from Trang to Kedah. Discussions and collaborations may be potential outcomes with shared knowledge and B2B business matching. They have also invited DPMM Kedah to make a reciprocal visit to Trang soon.
“I also want to see DPMM Kedah members export their products and services overseas, and the nearest destination is Thailand. We can make Trang a platform to further expand business opportunities, particularly in the halal food industry,” he said.
Meanwhile, Anan Boon said the delegation’s visit to Kedah was part of his efforts to introduce Trang Province to tourists from Kedah and from other states and countries.
“Trang is a more affordable tourist destination compared with other provinces frequented by tourists. We also have halal food and halal industries, and a rich diversity of religions and cultures, which we believe can attract tourists to Trang,” he said.
-- BERNAMA